Patiala Distillers Limited has refuted allegations that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is connected to its operations. The company’s legal representatives stated that Kindiki has no direct or indirect relationship with Patiala Distillers, including through agency arrangements or proxies. According to the lawyers, the company’s directors and shareholders are fully recorded with the Registrar of Companies, and Kindiki is not listed as a shareholder or director in any capacity.

The denial comes amid claims that Patiala Distillers is involved in the manufacture or distribution of illicit alcohol in the Mt Kenya region. The company has announced it will pursue legal action against politicians and individuals who continue to associate its name with counterfeit or illicit alcoholic products. Patiala Distillers also rejected claims questioning the safety of its products, affirming that it operates under a valid licence and complies with all regulatory standards.

Quality assurance officer Mugiira Withiga urged consumers to differentiate genuine Patiala beverages from counterfeit drinks that may use similar branding. Withiga noted that the company’s products have distinctive physical and chemical characteristics approved by government agencies. This statement was issued as the government intensifies its crackdown on illicit alcohol following reports of deaths and illnesses linked to unsafe drinks in parts of the Mt Kenya area.

Deputy President Kindiki has directed authorities to conduct fresh inspections of alcohol manufacturers nationwide, including those holding valid licences. Kindiki warned that manufacturers found producing hazardous alcoholic beverages could face closure, underscoring the administration’s focus on consumer protection. This move is part of a broader effort to eliminate counterfeit and unsafe alcohol from the market.

Patiala Distillers reiterated its support for regulatory efforts to eliminate counterfeit and unsafe alcohol. The company emphasized that its legally produced and approved products should not be confused with illicit drinks. Patiala Distillers operates under a valid licence and adheres to all regulatory standards, ensuring the quality and safety of its products.

The company’s pledge to take legal action against those spreading false claims is seen as a move to protect its reputation. Patiala Distillers aims to maintain consumer trust by distinguishing its products from counterfeit ones. The company’s commitment to quality and safety is reflected in its compliance with regulatory standards and its cooperation with government agencies.

The government’s crackdown on illicit alcohol is ongoing, with authorities working to identify and shut down manufacturers of hazardous beverages. Deputy President Kindiki’s directive to inspect alcohol manufacturers nationwide is part of this effort, which aims to protect consumers from the dangers of unsafe drinks. Patiala Distillers’ denial of links to Kindiki and its commitment to regulatory compliance are seen as positive steps in this direction.

Key points

  • Patiala Distillers Limited denies allegations linking Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to illicit alcohol production.
  • The company pledges to take legal action against those spreading false claims.
  • Deputy President Kindiki directs authorities to inspect alcohol manufacturers nationwide to ensure compliance with health, safety, and quality regulations.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.